Vietnam Culinary Tour 12 Days -

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Duration

12 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hoi An – Hue – Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta – Cu Chi Tunnels – Vietnam

The 12-day Gastronomic Adventure in Vietnam caters to small groups eager to explore the finest Vietnamese cuisine across the Northern and Southern regions. Beyond delving into the area’s captivating history and modern culture, immerse yourself in stunning landscapes and embrace the locals’ way of life. Join us in discovering Vietnam’s vibrant culture through its diverse and flavorful culinary delights!

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of Indochina Royal Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

We'll rendezvous with our guide at the airport, then proceed to the hotel.

Check-in time begins at 14:00 (early check-in available for an additional charge).

Enjoy the entire day at your leisure, whether exploring independently or opting to join our suggested activities:

Water Puppet Show: Experience the unique Vietnamese water puppetry with traditional performances accompanied by folk music.

Hanoi By Night Foodie Vespa Tours: Delve into the culinary delights of the Old Quarter, exploring some of Hanoi's finest cuisine, making for a delightful start to your journey.

Kindly ensure you're at Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate) and contact us upon arrival for easy identification.

Accommodation: Hanoi Hotel

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour and Walking Food Tour Full Day

Morning:

Visit renowned landmarks:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The resting place of Commander and President Ho Chi Minh.

Temple of Literature: Vietnam's inaugural national university, symbolizing the country's heritage.

Hoan Kiem Lake: Known for its historical significance, situated at the heart of Hanoi, a pivotal tourist spot.

Hanoi Old Quarter: An area steeped in history, showcasing numerous historical sites and exuding vibrant city life.

Lunch will follow the city tour.
Evening:

Embark on a Vietnamese street food exploration.

Delve into the local cuisine, savoring lesser-known dishes cherished by the locals:

Bun Bo (Sauteed Beef Rice Vermicelli): A popular rice noodle dish originating from Central Vietnam - Hue.

Banh Cuon (Steamed rice rolls): Steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork and chopped wood ear mushrooms.

Banh Mi: Acknowledged as one of the world's best street foods, offering a variety of flavors.

Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee): A distinctive and iconic beverage in Hanoi.

Accommodation: Hanoi Hotel

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Halong Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Morning:

Proceed to Halong Bay, renowned for its karst formations, captivating caves, picturesque beaches, and azure waters.

Board the Halong Bay cruise to revel in the bay’s natural splendor.

Indulge in a delightful seafood feast for lunch while cruising.

Afternoon:

Engage in various activities like cave exploration, kayaking, or a refreshing swim in the sea.

Return to the cruise for relaxation and dining.

Evening:

Relish a delectable dinner aboard the cruise.

Overnight stay on the cruise.

Accommodation: Halong Bay Cruise

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An

Morning:

Participate in an early morning Tai-chi session.

Witness the captivating sunrise.

Savor breakfast while on board.

Explore the enchanting caves within the bay.

Noon:

Return to the main dock and journey back to Hanoi.

Enjoy lunch provided during the journey to the port.

Afternoon:

Proceed to Noi Bai airport for the flight to Da Nang.

Upon arrival at Da Nang airport, transfer to a hotel in Hoi An for check-in and an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Hoi An Hotel

<span> Day 5</span> Hoi An Walking Foodie Tour

Morning:

Relax until the evening hours.

Evening:

Embark on an Evening Walking Foodie Tour to uncover the culinary delights and cultural essence of Hoi An.

Traverse local markets, eateries, and restaurants for an immersive culinary journey.

Explore food stalls offering traditional Hoi An dishes, including:

Banh Mi: Sample the iconic Vietnamese dish available in various flavors.

Cao Lau: A distinct noodle with a texture akin to Japanese Udon, distinct from pho noodles.

Banh Beo: A popular snack cherished by the locals of Hoi An.

Banh Khot: Round pancakes made from rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, quail egg, and vegetables, often found at a renowned street vendor near Hoai square.

Balut: An exotic dish, featuring the fertilized embryo of a growing egg, considered one of the world's top 10 unique foods, served either raw or steamed.

Savor traditional Vietnamese coffee renowned for its blend of robust drip coffee and sweet condensed milk.

Enjoy leisure time in Hoi An Ancient Town or return to the hotel.

Accommodation: Hoi An Hotel

<span> Day 6</span> Hoi An - Da Nang - Hue

Morning:

Prepare for transport to Hue, arranged either through a shuttle bus or private car, traversing the Cloudy Pass.

Pause at selected locations during the journey for photo opportunities or optional sightseeing (additional charges may apply).

Accommodation: Hue Hotel

<span> Day 7</span> Half-day Hue City Tour

Morning:

Begin the day's excursion at Thien Mu Pagoda, an esteemed Buddhist temple recognized for its antique architecture and set against the serene backdrop of the Perfume River.

Proceed to the Imperial Citadel of Hue, an expansive and awe-inspiring structure that provides insight into Vietnam's pre-modern history.

Take a leisurely stroll around the citadel to witness the grandeur of its front gate, the Flag Tower, The King’s Palace, and the Museums of Royal Antiquities.

Explore Dong Ba Market, Hue's oldest and most extensive marketplace, offering an array of affordable goods and local products.

Accommodation: Hue Hotel

<span> Day 8</span> Hue - Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

Proceed to Hue airport for your scheduled flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Noon:

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, travel to the designated hotel.

Take the rest of the day to unwind at the hotel or venture out to explore the city at your leisure.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 9</span> Cu Chi Tunnels & Cooking Class Full Day

Morning:

Commence the day by preparing for pickup from your accommodation at 7:30 AM, marking the start of the day-long tour.

Between 8:45 and 10:00 AM, explore Ho Chi Minh Agricultural Villages located in Cu Chi District. Experience rural life firsthand, engaging in activities such as visiting buffalo areas, rice fields, and herb farms to immerse yourself in the life of a Vietnamese farmer.

Noon:

From 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM, engage in an interactive cooking session where you'll learn the art of crafting three delectable Vietnamese dishes and a sweet dessert. Following this session, relish the prepared dishes for lunch.

Upon completion, receive a certificate, a memorable souvenir, and the recipes used during the cooking session.

Afternoon:

Between 1:30 and 2:00 PM, after lunch, visit the rice paper-making village to observe the traditional method of its production, and if interested, participate in the process.

Explore the neighboring rubber tree forest, observing the local techniques of latex collection.

Between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passages spanning 250 km. Here, you'll:

Gain insight into tunnel life through an introductory video.

Learn about the construction, living conditions, and wartime tactics employed within the tunnels.

Visit Hoang Cam's smokeless stove and have the option to participate in gun shooting with real bullets (additional fees apply).

Conclude the visit with boiled tapioca and hot tea.

Evening:

Return to Ho Chi Minh City via bus, retiring to your accommodation to relax.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

<span> Day 10</span> Ho Chi Minh - Cai Be - Mekong Delta

Morning:

Journey towards Cai Be Cao Dai Oratories, an emblem of local religious significance.

Explore the floating rice market in An Cu commune, renowned as Vietnam's largest rice exporter, offering insights into local livelihoods.
Noon:

Discover the ancient village of Dong Hoa Hiep commune and the vibrant Cai Be floating market.

Proceed to Tan Phong islet and Hai Yen Bee Farm, where a vast flower garden hosts honey-producing bees, providing an educational experience about beekeeping.

Pause at the Linhzhi mushroom area, engaging in activities like pulling fish hooves and crossing Monkey Bridges.

Delight in the orchard's offerings, relishing garden-fresh fruits amidst the melodies of Vietnamese folk music. Experience a serene rowboat journey through a small canal.

Indulge in lunch at The Mekong Ecolodge Resort, followed by check-in and relaxation.
Afternoon:

Engage in ditch fishing and vegetable picking in the restaurant's garden, partaking in dinner preparation activities.

Savor dinner at the Ecolodge.

Accommodation: Homestay

<span> Day 11</span> Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Morning:

Embark on an engaging itinerary, immersing in various activities alongside locals on Tan Phong Island by bicycle.

Learn the art of crafting rice paper for spring rolls.

Witness the traditional process of knitting banana hammocks from dried banana leaf ropes.

Engage in crafting jackfruit leaf cakes with the homeowner.

Gain insights into the traditional roofing technique using leaves for Vietnamese homes.

Delve into a water hyacinth knitting lesson, receiving guidance on crafting homemade gifts.

Visit the local schools and interact with the students.

Return to Mekong Ecolodge for a final night's stay before departing home.
Noon:

Experience the Hiep Duc ferry boat with locals as you traverse the Tien River.

Journey back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Accommodation: Ho Chi Minh Hotel

<span> Day 12</span> Ho Chi Minh Departure

Morning:

Proceed to Tan San Nhat Airport.

Note: Hotel check-out time is at noon. Depending on room availability, a late check-out can be arranged with an additional fee.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

Durations

9 - 12 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Vietnam

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hoi An - Hue - Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Cu Chi Tunnels - Vietnam

Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture - 🏛️ Exploring Hanoi’s Colonial Architecture: A Journey Through Time in the French Quarter When most travelers think of Hanoi, their minds often jump to the lively chaos of the Old Quarter — buzzing scooters, sizzling street food stalls, and narrow alleyways filled with history. But just a short stroll away lies another side of the city: the French Quarter, where grand boulevards, leafy trees, and elegant colonial mansions whisper stories of Vietnam’s colonial past. If the Old Quarter feels like a vibrant maze, then the French Quarter offers space, serenity, and timeless elegance. And what makes it truly fascinating is how these buildings — constructed during French rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries — now blend seamlessly into modern-day Hanoi. In this blog, let’s dive deep into Hanoi’s colonial architecture, explore the must-see landmarks, uncover hidden gems, and share insider tips to make your visit in 2025 unforgettable. 🌿 A Different Pace: From Old Quarter to French Quarter After the sensory overload of the Old Quarter, stepping into the French Quarter feels like a breath of fresh air. The streets are wider, the pace slower, and the trees taller. Instead of tiny tube houses, here you’ll find broad boulevards, neoclassical façades, and elegant villas that once housed colonial administrators and wealthy merchants. This neighborhood, located around Hoan Kiem Lake and stretching toward Ba Dinh District, is sometimes called Hanoi’s “second French Quarter.” Both areas showcase different layers of colonial influence, each with its own unique atmosphere. Walking here is a joy: you can actually hear birdsong, admire the pastel-colored villas, and feel the cool shade of banyan and flamboyant trees. It’s no wonder that many embassies, luxury hotels, and cultural institutions now call this district home. 🏰 Architectural Styles: From Neoclassical to Art Deco The architecture of Hanoi’s French Quarter isn’t uniform. Instead, it’s a rich mix of styles that evolved over decades: ✨ Neoclassical (early 1900s) – Think grand pillars, symmetrical facades, and whitewashed walls. These buildings often housed important colonial offices.✨ Beaux-Arts & Renaissance influences – Characterized by ornate balconies, arched windows, and elaborate detailing.✨ Art Deco (1930s) – Sleek, geometric lines that represented modernity at the time.✨ Oriental touches – Some villas incorporated tiled roofs or dragon motifs, blending French design with Vietnamese aesthetics. The result? A living museum of architectural evolution, all within walking distance. 🌟 Must-See Colonial Landmarks in Hanoi (Updated for 2025) Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss when exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter and beyond: 1. Hanoi Opera House 🎭 Perhaps the most iconic colonial building in Hanoi, the Opera House (built in 1911) was modeled after Paris’s Palais Garnier. With its elegant yellow façade, grand columns, and ornate interior, it remains a cultural hub. Today, it hosts concerts, ballets, and international performances — check the 2025 schedule for special events if you want to experience it firsthand. 2. Government Guest House 🏛️ Originally the residence of the Governor of Tonkin, this grand neoclassical mansion now serves as the Government Guest House. While it’s not open to the public, you can admire its pastel-yellow walls and elegant gardens from the outside. It’s located at the intersection of Ngo Quyen and Le Thach streets, just a few steps from Hoan Kiem Lake. 3. Metropole Hanoi Hotel ✨ A living legend of colonial luxury, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi (built in 1901) has hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to Angelina Jolie. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Le Club Bar or sip cocktails at the Bamboo Bar by the pool. 4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral ⛪ Although technically in the Old Quarter, this Gothic Revival church (built in 1886) reflects the French colonial period. Often compared to a mini version of Notre-Dame de Paris, it’s still an active place of worship and a popular photography spot. 5. Ba Dinh’s Colonial Villas 🏡 Along Phan Dinh Phung and Dien Bien Phu streets in Ba Dinh District, you’ll find tree-lined avenues dotted with French villas. Many of them now serve as embassies or government offices. These quieter streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll away from tourist crowds. 6. Vietnam National Museum of History 📚 Housed in a former colonial building with yellow walls and Indochinese architectural flair, this museum is worth visiting not only for its exhibits but also for its design. The mix of French style and Vietnamese motifs makes it a standout landmark. 🚶 Best Ways to Explore the French Quarter Exploring Hanoi’s French Quarter is best done on foot. Here are some tips for your 2025 visit: 👟 Walking Tour – Start from Hoan Kiem Lake, pass by the Opera House, then wander down Trang Tien Street, where luxury boutiques now sit inside colonial storefronts. Continue toward Ngo Quyen Street to see the Government Guest House, then loop around toward the Metropole. 🚲 Cyclo Ride – For a slower pace, hop on a cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) and let a local guide pedal you through the boulevards while you sit back and soak in the views. 🚌 Guided Tour – Several Hanoi walking tour companies now offer themed “Colonial Architecture Tours,” which include hidden villas and access to buildings usually closed to the public. ☕ Cafés & Dining in Colonial Buildings One of the best ways to experience colonial architecture is to enjoy it from the inside. Many of Hanoi’s historic villas have been transformed into stylish cafés, restaurants, and art spaces: Maison de Tet Décor – A villa-turned-café with garden views, perfect for brunch. L’Espace (French Cultural Center) – A cultural hub with exhibitions, film screenings, and a cozy café. Metropole’s Angelina Bar – For fine dining and crafted cocktails inside one of Hanoi’s most elegant hotels. 📸 Photography Tips for 2025 Morning Light: The soft glow between 7–9 AM is ideal for capturing yellow façades. Avoid Midday Heat: Hanoi can get hot, especially from May to September. Details Matter: Don’t just snap the whole building — zoom in on wrought-iron balconies,...Hanoi Opera House - 🎭 Hanoi Opera House in 2025: A Timeless Icon of Art, Culture & History Few landmarks in Hanoi capture the city’s unique mix of history, culture, and elegance quite like the Hanoi Opera House. Known officially as the Municipal Theatre, this magnificent building stands proudly at the eastern end of Trang Tien Street, where French charm meets Vietnamese soul. More than just a venue for performances, the Opera House is a symbol of Hanoi’s colonial heritage and its continuing transformation into a global cultural capital. Let’s dive into its history, architecture, experiences, and tips for visiting in 2025. 🏛️ A Journey Through Time 🇫🇷 French Ambitions in Vietnam Construction of the Opera House began in 1901 and lasted nearly ten years. Built on reclaimed land, it officially opened in 1911, modeled after the neo-Baroque Palais Garnier in Paris. With its Ionic columns, slate tiles imported from France, and intricate façade, it was the ultimate jewel of French Hanoi. During the colonial era, it wasn’t just a building — it was the epicenter of high society, where the French elite attended operas, ballets, and classical concerts. ✊ The August Revolution of 1945 In August 1945, the Opera House became a stage for politics rather than performance. From its balcony, the Viet Minh proclaimed the success of the August Revolution, marking a turning point in Vietnam’s fight for independence. 🎭 From Socialist Realism to Global Stage After independence, the Opera House hosted plays and performances centered on Socialist Realism and revolutionary ideals. However, following a major restoration in the early 2000s, the building returned to its former grandeur, once again shining as a cultural hub. Today in 2025, it remains a living monument where history, art, and architecture merge. ✨ Architectural Grandeur Step inside (or even admire from outside), and you’ll instantly understand why this is one of Hanoi’s crown jewels. 🕯️ Interiors That Breathe Elegance The Opera House is adorned with: Crystal chandeliers ✨ Sweeping marble staircases 🪞 Ornate Parisian mirrors Red velvet seats and golden accents Every detail reflects Parisian luxury, yet it has been carefully restored to preserve authenticity. 🌙 Exterior Beauty If you don’t attend a show, don’t worry. The facade is a masterpiece in itself — especially under: Evening floodlights 🌆 The soft glow of a full moon 🌕 Early morning golden light 🌞 It’s a photographer’s dream, and many locals gather here just to enjoy the atmosphere. 🎶 Performances & Events in 2025 The Hanoi Opera House isn’t just about history — it’s an active cultural hub. 🎻 What You Can See In 2025, the Opera House continues to host: Classical concerts featuring Vietnamese and international orchestras 🎼 Ballet & opera performances in collaboration with global companies 🩰 Traditional Vietnamese music and dance shows with modern interpretations 🎶 Contemporary fusion events, blending Vietnamese instruments with Western symphonies 🎷 💡 Pro Tip Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for international collaborations. Book online directly at the official Hanoi Opera House website or via reputable Vietnamese ticketing platforms. 🍵 Experiences Around the Opera House The Opera House is located in the French Quarter, one of Hanoi’s most elegant districts. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss nearby: ☕ Café Terrace at Sofitel Metropole Hotel – enjoy afternoon tea in Hanoi’s most iconic hotel. 🛍️ Trang Tien Plaza – luxury shopping and local designer boutiques. 🎨 L’Espace (Institut Français) – exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural events. 🌳 Hoan Kiem Lake – just a short walk away, perfect for an evening stroll. 📸 Best Photo Spots For the perfect Opera House picture in 2025: 📍 Across Trang Tien Street – for a full frontal view. 📍 From the side boulevards – to capture the columns and angles. 📍 At night – when the building glows in golden light. 📍 During Tet Festival – when the Opera House is decorated with flowers and lights. 🗺️ Practical Travel Tips (2025) 🕰️ Opening Hours The Opera House is only open to the public during performances and special tours. If you don’t attend a show, you can still admire the exterior anytime. 🎟️ Ticket Prices Local performances: From 150,000 VND (~6 USD) International shows: Up to 2,500,000 VND (~100 USD) Guided tours (when available): Around 200,000–300,000 VND (~8–12 USD) 🚕 Getting There 🚶 Walking: Only 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake. 🚖 Taxi or Grab: Affordable and convenient. 🚲 Cyclo ride: A charming old-fashioned way to arrive. 👜 Dress Code While not extremely strict, smart casual is recommended. Locals often dress elegantly for evening shows. 🌟 Why Visit the Hanoi Opera House in 2025? It’s Hanoi’s most iconic colonial building. It’s a living museum of Vietnamese history — from colonial times to independence. It offers world-class performances in a unique setting. It’s surrounded by the French Quarter’s charm — perfect for a half-day cultural stroll. 🎭 Final Thoughts The Hanoi Opera House is more than just a building — it’s a symbol of Hanoi’s identity. From colonial glamour to revolutionary history and modern-day cultural rebirth, it has witnessed the city’s greatest transformations. In 2025, whether you attend a world-class ballet, enjoy a Vietnamese traditional concert, or simply admire its architecture under the moonlight, the Opera House promises an unforgettable experience. 👉 My advice: Don’t just pass by. Book a performance, step inside, and let the magic of Hanoi’s Opera House transport you across time.

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From: €630

4-star hotels

4.9 (129 Reviews)

Vietnam Culinary Tour 12 days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi City Tour and Walking Food Tour Full Day

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay - Overnight on Cruise

Day 4 Halong Bay - Hanoi - Fly to Da Nang - Hoi An

Day 5 Hoi An Walking Foodie Tour

Day 6 Hoi An - Da Nang - Hue

Day 7 Half-day Hue City Tour

Day 8 Hue - Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 9 Cu Chi Tunnels & Cooking Class Full Day

Day 10 Ho Chi Minh - Cai Be - Mekong Delta

Day 11 Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12 Ho Chi Minh Departure

Durations

Languages

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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